Verified By Apollo Cardiologist October 1, 2023
46647A CT Heart Scan, also known as coronary calcium scan, is a medical test that involves the use of computerized tomography (CT) to detect the presence of calcium deposits in the arteries. If a patient scores high on this test, it indicates the presence of calcium deposits, which can lead to the narrowing down of coronary arteries, and subsequently increase the chances of developing a heart attack.
CT Heart Scans are primarily performed to detect the chances of developing a heart attack early. While this test is used to confirm the onset of heart diseases, it also identifies any underlying signs of developing coronary artery diseases by assessing the calcium deposits.
People between the age of 40 and 70 are recommended to get a calcium-score screening. Other factors involve:
Patients who have been already diagnosed with coronary artery diseases or who have received treatment for coronary artery diseases are not required to get a calcium scan.
The procedure for a CT Heart Scan is as follows:
To prepare for a CT Heart Scan, patients are required to do the following activities:
The risks associated with CT Heart Scans are as follows:
Patients undergoing CT Heart Scans will be completely supervised by the surgical team, but it’s also important for them to know what to expect and avoid any surprises that could lead to a stressful situation during the test.
Patients are given a beta-blocker which slows down the heart rate, for the technician to take clear pictures. Once the beta-blocker is administered, an intravenous line (IV) is inserted into a vein and a radioactive dye is inserted through the IV. Patients may feel a metallic taste in their mouths when the dye is inserted. Patients are also required to lie down still on a bench, and asked to hold their breath for short amounts of time.
Once the test is underway, the patient lying on the bench is moved into the CT machine, and the patient is required to stay inside the CT machine. The entire test usually lasts 10 minutes. While the patient is inside the CT machine, they can communicate with the diagnostic team through an intercom located inside the machine. Instructions from the diagnostics team, such as holding the breath for a short period of time, are also conveyed through this intercom.
Once the CT Heart Scan is completed, patients are allowed to resume their normal activities, and advised to drink a lot of water to flush out the dye.
Upon completion, results from a CT Heart Scan are usually delivered conveyed to the patient by the consulting doctor. The results are as follows:
Results from a CT Heart Scan is rarely used as the sole predictor of heart diseases and heart attacks. Physicians usually combine the results of the CT Heart Scan with other relevant information before making a definite diagnosis of a heart condition. However, CT Heart Scans provide a clear picture of any underlying heart conditions. Hence individuals over the age of 40 are advised to undergo these tests to ensure the heart is healthy and free of any blockages.
You do not have to go through a coronary calcium scan frequently. A CT Heart Scan once every ten years is enough to assess your heart condition.
You do not need to be admitted to the hospital. A CT Heart Scan is a simple procedure, and you can go home immediately after the test.
You can exercise even with high levels of calcium deposits in your arteries. However, maintain moderate levels to avoid complications.
Your doctor may advise you stop taking certain medications only if there is a need to do so.
The normal range of a coronary calcium score is between 0 to 300.
Any test results that come above 300 is said to be bad, and indicates a higher risk of developing heart attacks. Patients who score higher than 300 are usually admitted to the hospital, and treatment begins as soon as possible.
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October 25, 2024